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Snyder prepares for trade trip to Italy, Germany

LANSING — Gov. Rick Snyder plans to leave for Europe on Saturday for a trade mission focused on the auto industry.

Snyder told the Associated Press the weeklong trip will include meetings and events in four cities in Italy and Germany. He said he'll focus on developing relationships that will help increase exports from Michigan and encourage foreign investments in the state.

The governor said Thursday that he hopes the trip will produce "continued headquarters expansions" and research and development growth. He cites the decision by German engine parts manufacturer Mahle (MAHL'-ey) to build its North American headquarters in Michigan as a result of his last trade trip to Italy and Germany in 2012.

Snyder also calls the trip an "opportunity to clear up old information" abroad and promote Michigan's recovering economy.